People are searching for you online. Stand out with a LinkedIn profile that makes people want you.
Header Image
Dimensions: 1128 (w) x 191 (h) pixels
Your background photo is the second visual element at the top of your profile page. It grabs people’s attention, sets the context, and shows a little more about what matters to you.
More than anything, the right background photo helps your page stand out, engage attention, and stay memorable.
Headshot (photo)
Your profile picture is your calling card on LinkedIn – it’s how people are introduced to you and (visual beings that we are) it governs their impressions from the start. Here are some quick tips to start with: make sure the picture is recent and looks like you, make sure your face takes up around 60% of it (long-distance shots don’t stand out), wear what you would like to wear to work, and smile with your eyes!
Headline
There’s no rule that says the description at the top of your profile page has to be your official job title. Use the headline field to say a bit more about how you see your role, why you do what you do, and what you’re passionate about.
Example 1: Lead generation expert and relationship builder.
Example 2: LinkedIn lead specialist with a passion for connecting people.
Example 3: Austin, TX native, business advisor and parent to two beautiful girls!
Position
Use this section to give a clear statement or two of your role AND responsibilities.
Example: CEO/Partner • Certified Eco Friendly • We’re Hiring!
About YOU
For salespeople, this section can be help build report and relatability; for other professionals, it could be the gateway to a new career opportunity.
Tell your story, have fun in this section by sharing your short bio and some simple bullet points about your area of expertise.
- Hook readers with a strong opener.
- Tell the reader why you do what you do.
- Speak to your industry expertise.
- Call out your specialties and skills.
- Highlight your professional interests.
- Include a call-to-action with your contact information.
Summarize your skills and characteristics that set you apart using searchable keywords that can improve
your ranking in search results. Include presentations, links to websites, blogs, social networks, and other
items that boost your credibility.
Complete every section of the profile in detail, as well as add other applicable sections such as volunteer
experience, projects, and publications. These sections are great if you might not have a lot of work
experience. You can move sections on the page – for example, you can put your skills at the top.
License/Certification
In this section, include an image of your certifications and awards with short descriptions.
Recommendations
A “recommendation” on LinkedIn is a commendation written by a LinkedIn member to recognize your work. You can request recommendations from your 1st-degree connections you work with or have worked with. If a connection writes you a recommendation, you’ll be notified via a message from the sender on LinkedIn. Don’t be afraid to ask close connections who can account for your caliber of work to write you a recommendation – don’t forget to return the favor!
Skills and Endorsements
Listing your skills can help you appear in search results while endorsements are an easy way for someone to validate those skills. These are not the same thing as recommendations and you can choose which ones you want to appear in your LinkedIn profile.
Custom URL
LinkedIn automatically gives you a generic profile URL. You can create a custom LinkedIn profile URL with your name. Perhaps include your city with your name. Your profile will be easier to find on Google search, it will look more professional, and you can include it on business cards, brochures, and more.
Share an Update
Every time you update your status or change information on your profile, activity is distributed to those in
your network. Updating your status is a great way to communicate with others and become an expert in
your industry. Share articles, quotes, or whatever fits your personal brand.
Groups
There are millions of groups on LinkedIn that present countless opportunities to grow your network. Begin by joining groups that contain useful information applicable to your business and participate in discussions. Use groups as a way to stay on top of the latest news in your industry and to build relationships with other professionals.
Followers
Connecting with users in your market will increase the 1st level connections and allow you to engage and share with them. 500+ is the goal.
Updating your LinkedIn Profile
Consistently updating your profile and participating in groups will help you professionally in the long run.
Whether you’re looking for a job, grow your business, or just make professional connections, LinkedIn
gives you the opportunity to grow your personal brand online.
Want Help?
Ready to grow your network and generate more leads on LinkedIn? Optimize your LinkedIn profile and then ask Pinpoint Local Norcross about our automated LinkedIn virtual assistant. It’s programmed to do the time consuming and manual outreach actions on your behalf. This means more conversations with qualified prospects automatically! Get started today, visit: WWW.PINPOINTLOCALNORCROSS.COM. Or checkout president, Thomas Freese, on LinkedIn.
